The Qatar National Library (QNL) is expanding its efforts to strengthen the library profession across the region with two virtual training workshops this month, designed to equip librarians with the latest skills in reading programme development and artificial intelligence (AI).
Organised under the “Librarians for Libraries” initiative, the workshops are being delivered by the QNL in its capacity as the regional office of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) for the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region.
The programme aims to enhance professional expertise while helping libraries adapt to the rapidly evolving information landscape.
Speaking to *Gulf Times, library specialist Mohammad Abu al-Ghaith highlighted the growing importance of continuous professional development in an era increasingly shaped by emerging technologies.
“Continuous training has become essential as the library profession evolves alongside rapid technological advances, particularly in AI,” he said. “Librarians today must constantly develop new skills to meet the changing needs of readers while preserving the timeless principle that ‘for every reader, there is a book, and for every book, a reader’.”
“Through innovative programmes, we seek to inspire children and families to embrace reading while ensuring libraries remain vibrant centres of lifelong learning,” al-Ghaith said. “The QNL has established itself as a dynamic knowledge institution, delivering year-round professional training across Qatar and the wider region, while providing readers with seamless access to books, information and digital resources both on-site and online.”
The programme opens tomorrow (August 9) with “How Can Libraries Design Reading Programmes That Inspire Children and Families?”, an Arabic-language workshop to be held via Zoom from 4pm to 5pm.
The session will introduce practical approaches to designing engaging reading initiatives that encourage participation by children and families, drawing on successful experiences in organising reading events, school visits and community outreach activities.
A second workshop, “Generative Artificial Intelligence and Library Services”, will take place on August 18 from 1pm to 2pm, also in Arabic via Zoom.
The session will explore the transformative role of generative AI in modern library services, equipping participants with the knowledge and practical tools needed to integrate emerging technologies into their professional practice.
Through initiatives such as “Librarians for Libraries”, the QNL continues to reinforce its role as a regional hub for professional excellence, fostering innovation, knowledge exchange and lifelong learning while supporting librarians across the Mena region in meeting the challenges and opportunities of an increasingly digital future.